A Lifetime of Faith and Compassion: Rev. James Robison Passes Away at 82; Wife Betty Shares Emotional Tribute

The international Christian community is mourning the loss of Rev. James Robison, the iconic evangelist, author, and humanitarian who passed away on May 17, 2026, at the age of 82. The board of directors for LIFE Outreach International confirmed his passing, celebrating a life completely poured out in service to the Gospel and the less fortunate.

Following the announcement, a wave of profound emotion swept through social media as a touching video surfaced featuring his beloved wife, Betty Robison. In the heartfelt tribute, Betty—James’s partner in both marriage and ministry since 1963—honored the legacy of the man who spent more than six decades fighting for faith, unity, and global humanitarian relief. The emotional video left millions of supporters deeply moved, as they recalled the couple’s beautiful, 63-year godly marriage.

From a Broken Childhood to a Global Pulpit

Born in Houston, Texas, under incredibly difficult circumstances resulting from a sexual assault, James Robison’s early childhood was marked by poverty and instability. However, after a life-changing encounter with Jesus Christ at the age of 14, his trajectory completely altered. Encouraged by legendary evangelist Billy Graham, Robison founded the James Robison Evangelistic Association, eventually preaching in person to over 20 million people across 600 cities.

In 1994, James and Betty launched LIFE Today, a groundbreaking television program that expanded their reach into more than 100 nations. Known initially as a fiery, direct preacher, Robison’s ministry evolved over the years into a passionate call for Christian unity and supernatural transformation.

A Massive Humanitarian Legacy

Beyond the television screen and church pulpits, Rev. Robison will perhaps be most remembered for his staggering humanitarian impact. Shaken by the extreme poverty he witnessed during a mission trip to Mozambique in 1989, Robison shifted the focus of his ministry toward practical compassion.

Under the banner of LIFE Outreach International, the ministry launched massive relief efforts, including:

Mission Feeding: An initiative that grew from a commitment to feed 5,000 children to an operation that currently feeds approximately 350,000 children daily, saving over 24 million lives over the decades.

Clean Water Initiatives: Drilling thousands of water wells for vulnerable communities worldwide.

Disaster Relief: Providing immediate emergency aid during global crises.

“The way to bless God is to bless someone He loves,” Robison frequently told his audience. “Bless someone in need.”

Tributes Pour In

As news of his passing spread, major faith leaders and public figures—including Franklin Graham, Mike Huckabee, and Robert Jeffress—paid tribute to Robison’s profound mentorship and unyielding kingdom impact.

While the Robison family and the global church grieve this immense loss, the board of LIFE Outreach International assured partners that the ministry’s mission will continue uninterrupted, carrying the exact same heart and commitment that James championed throughout his extraordinary life. James Robison is survived by his wife Betty, two children, and eleven grandchildren.